Current fashion tip...

[gtdean48]

Just last week, I was reading an online mag about current fashion trends because 1 was about a leather jacket. It said to try on sizes until you find one you cannot zip up all the way comfortably & get the next larger size.
I understand that this is not for wearing any layers beneath but I am also guessing not to be worn zipped up much either.
I've had some I could zip all the way up but weren't comfortable in the arm pits or across the shoulder.
Thoughts from the more experienced in the Lounge? [huh]

 

[Hemingway Jones]

A good rule of thumb. American men habitually wear clothes one, two or three sizes too large, be it a leather jacket or anything else. Just examine your local news cast and watch how they wear their suits.

A jacket, especially a leather one, should fit, it should be somewhat molded to the body and since leather stretches, it's a good rule. However, seams should not be pulling, it should not be so constricting that you cannot move. You'll know...

I believe, if we have both seen the same article, it was in reference to a tailored black bomber jacket...

 

[Seb Lucas]

Bull...t

Most "fashion" tips are a load of crap. They try to enshrine an idea that simply ignores individual body shape, height, weight and the cut of the item being advised on. If there is any rule of thumb in leather jackets, it is probably buy one from a good maker and have them fit it to you.

If you're buying one off the rack, make sure it's not too tight or too loose. That'll depend on what you like and what you look like. Then there's the question of what works for you and that, no one can really advise you on as it's largely subjective... Some people - I'm one of these - would argue that a short leather jacket looks pretty much second rate on any guy with a big stomach. But even here there are exceptions. [huh]

Cheers - Seb

 

[gtdean48]

...I believe, if we have both seen the same article, it was in reference to a tailored black bomber jacket...

I know it was in with other tips about suits & break in slacks, etc.
I've always bought leather jackets for protective outer layer either for motorcycle or horseback riding as well as against wind which all usually mean I have some fleece layer underneath. For warmer weather m/c riding, I have a perforated cafe racer.
It was just odd to me to read going to that type of fit but then I am not surprised what fashionistas put out at all!!!

 

[RP McMurphy]

Fit

I saw that same article. Honestly, the only way to get a jacket that really fits is to know HOW that particular jacket is supposed to fit. Moreover, one must bear in mind which style and fit would best compliment one's build. Leather jackets can be tricky in that regard, since styles and tastes have changed so many times over the decades. This is exacerbated by the fact that modern jackets tend to be constructed of softer, lighter hides that will bend more easily to one's will. Horse or cow hide... not so much.

In the end, I suppose the best analogy for getting the right fit is to look at how a jacket fits just as closesly as you would a suit-jacket or blazer. Personally, I believe a jacket should be trim and squared at the shoulders, with just enough room to layer a sweater underneath. However, that's my own opinion, and I'm sure it's not the best solution for all. Still, don't be afraid to pass up one jacket for another that might fit differently, and never be afraid to give a smaller size a try. I once wore XL t-shirts, now I'm a Med. You might be nicely surprised...


Cheers

RP